Hydrants
Manukau Water Limited is cracking down on people who are putting lives at risk by illegally taking water from fire hydrants.
Fire hydrants are for fire fighters, but some people are illegally using some of the 10,500 fire hydrants in Manukau to meet their own water needs. This illegal use can have serious health and safety implications as it can damage hydrants and therefore mean they are not available for fire fighters. It could also lead to chemicals or other residue flowing back into the water system, therefore risking the health of other water users.
Illegal hydrant use ranges from people filling their swimming pools, to construction firms taking water to mix concrete.
Illegal fire hydrant users could now face a $5000 fine, and Manukau Water Limited wants the public to help enforce this policy.
If it’s not a fire fighter using a fire hydrant then Manukau Water would like to hear about it. So keep an eye on your nearest fire hydrant - let us know if it is damaged or being illegally used.
Remember that if a fire occurs, encountering a damaged hydrant costs fire crews precious time. They would either need to repair it on the spot or find the next closest hydrant, typically 135m away. Such a delay puts undue risk to both lives and property.
Beyond possible hydrant damage, there is also the risk of backflow contamination. When a hose is below the water level, dirty water can be sucked back into the mains supply.
On rare occasions, MWL may grant a permit to use hydrants if there are no other viable alternatives. Permits will only be issued to a select number of contractors and the rules around their use are stringent.
If you wish to apply for a permit:
• you will need to complete an application form which requires you to demonstrate that taking water from a hydrant is the only way to source water for your purposes. This form is available from Manukau Water Limited’s website www.manukauwater.co.nz
• pay annual fees as per tariff schedule (www.manukauwater.co.nz)
Permits are required for all use of fire hydrants including flow and pressure testing. The only exemption is the NZ Fire Service.
If you are unable to be granted a permit, then you will need to find an alternative source of water. Permit holders will be able to hire their services as necessary. The name of permit holders can be requested by emailing manukauwater@manukauwter.co.nz
The only people permitted to use hydrants are either:
• fire fighters (in uniforms).
• permit holders – who will be identifiable by the fluorescent green standpipe they are using.